There are some people who have heel pain, and it may be caused by a heel spur. It is defined as a bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel bone, and it can feel like a thorn in the foot. It generally forms at the point where the Achilles tendon connects to the back of the heel bone. A heel spur can happen from putting excessive strain on the foot. It can measure up to a half inch in length, and can become inflamed. Having an X-ray taken can be successful in determining if a heel spur exists. This is often performed after confirming symptoms, which may include increased pain while walking and avoiding any weight on the heel. Many patients walk on their tiptoes and find their pain is reduced while sitting down. Additionally, it may hurt when it is pressed on, and these symptoms may indicate medical attention is needed for relief. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can confirm a heel spur diagnosis and offer correct treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a specific condition of the foot that occurs when the cuboid bone moves out of alignment. Many patients often wonder what exactly cuboid syndrome feels like, and what symptoms are typically noticed. When an individual has cuboid syndrome, they may find it is challenging to walk. To compensate for this difficulty some patients may realize they are walking on their toes to avoid putting pressure on affected parts of their feet. Additionally, the lateral part of the foot that is affected by cuboid syndrome can become tender and swollen, and the overall foot may ache. If you are someone that is currently living with cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist immediately for treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture in the foot is generally accompanied by consistent aching, and it can be difficult to walk. It happens as a result of overuse that can gradually weaken the foot bones. The second metatarsal is a common place to suffer a stress fracture in the foot. This is defined as the long bone that is attached to the second toe, and is found in the middle of the foot. The navicular is one of the bones that forms the arch in the foot and is also a frequent place for a stress fracture. A diagnosis consists of having an X-ray taken, and treatment can consist of wearing a protective boot or cast. Many people choose to use crutches that can help to keep weight off of the affected foot, in addition to providing mobility. If you have foot pain, and believe it may be a stress fracture, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this type of injury.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Peter C. Smith from Lancaster Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.